• Name: Ardith
• Age: 51
• Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
• Surgery date: March 31st, 2014
• Testimonial date: June 16th, 2014
• Surgeon: Dr. Almanza

My weight problems began in high school. After years trying different diets and not finding success, I began to look for surgical alternatives. Although I didn't have diabetes, my blood pressure was becoming a problem. Plus, I wasn't able to do things that I wanted to do, such as enjoy a day at the park with my grandson.

I'd seen Dr. Almanza's website, and thought the claims and price were too good to be true. Taking a trip across the border was scary to think about, too. What changed my mind? A friend went down and had the surgery done. Her daughter is a nurse, and was allowed to scrub in for the surgery. The nurse said everything was done very well, and was sanitary.

My sister-in-law, brother-in-law & I went down together. The staff was nice, the hospital was clean, and everything went smoothly. To date, I have lost 57 pounds - and there's no turning back! The amount of energy that I have now doesn't compare to where I was before. I have begun walking 5 miles 4-5 times per week, and swim for an hour on the weekends. Waiting for the weather to warm up to spend that time in the park with my grandson.

This isn't a fad diet where the weight is gone today and back tomorrow. This is an entire lifestyle change. Looking forward to spending many healthy years with my husband, children and grandson.